March 12, 2013 – West Marine, a retailer of boating supplies and accessories, will celebrate its newly enlarged location at 251 N. Marina Dr. in Long Beach with special events taking place March 15-17. The Alamitos Bay Marina store has been increased to over 13,000 square feet, featuring an engine parts counter, a bait shack with an expanded selection of saltwater fishing gear, an assortment of inflatable boats, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards. For sailors in the Alamitos Bay area, the Long Beach store will have West Marine’s largest assortment of sailboat hardware, plus an expanded selection of core boating products and casual and technical apparel. Store Manager Dean Stanec has been with West Marine for 20 years and has over 35 years of experience on the water.  “Cruising for a Cause,” a fundraiser to benefit local boating and fishing programs, will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. March 15 at the store. Tickets are $10 and available at the door or through participating organizations. All proceeds will directly support these organizations and West Marine will donate 5 percent of sales on Friday, as well. Attendees will enjoy food, drinks and entertainment. (Photograph by the Business Journal’s Thomas McConville)